StorySALOON was launched in 2025 to grow audiences for the Australian short story, champion writers, and drive readers to the independent presses that publish them. Strong ticket sales and growing podcast subscribers confirm StorySALOON’s unique vision: that audiences are eager to hear Australian short stories performed live and via podcast.
Based in Sydney, with live shows at The Vanguard in Newtown, we are expanding beyond the inner west. We are keen to meet new audiences, and to take StorySALOON’s live shows to other Sydney locations, cities and regional communities.
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We welcome enquiries from festivals, venues and arts organisations interested in partnering with us to present a StorySALOON live show and podcast.
StorySALOON Ltd, Board of Directors
DR JANE MESSER
Dr Jane Messer is an esteemed author who has worked in publishing, academia and with peak literary organisations for over three decades. She is a former Australian Society of Authors and Rozelle Community Child Care Centre board member and was Director of Macquarie University’s Creative Writing programs for over 15 years, leading sponsorships with the Sydney Writers and Emerging Writers festivals. She founded StorySALOON in 2024, launching its first season in 2025. She is the host of the live show and podcast.
DR SHARMILA JAYASINGHE
Dr Sharmila Jayasinghe brings extensive board experience in the not-for-profit sector to StorySALOON Ltd, having served with organisations including The Sri Lankan Association of NSW, Hills Women's Shed and the Lisa Harnum Foundation. With a background in journalism and marketing, she holds a PhD in Creative Writing and Literature from the University of Sydney. Dr Jayasinghe is an independent researcher, award winning author, and manages a boutique publishing company.
RACHAEL ADAMSON
Rachael Adamson is a creative producer from Western Sydney with a love of witty comedy, bold theatricality and work that leads with heart. She currently produces at Hayes Theatre Co, alongside recent credits at the Australian Chamber Orchestra and the National Theatre of Parramatta, and produces independently under her own company, RaCreate Productions.
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With a multidisciplinary background across creative, technical and production departments in theatre, live art and performance, she brings a breadth of experience in both mainstage and independent producing.
SUE FAGAN
Sue Fagan brings a wealth of experience in marketing, communications and the contemporary arts to StorySALOON. With a diverse international career spanning media, marketing and communications, she is passionate about supporting artists and connecting them with audiences to strengthen Australia's cultural landscape.
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An Irish-born writer and performer, Sue is a regular on ABC Radio and has performed spoken word and stand-up at venues and festivals including Merrigong Theatre and Sydney Fringe.
MARTIN SEARLE
Martin has extensive executive experience across several sectors, managing significant resources and leading organisational development. Martin has expertise in business process improvement, recruitment and development, and commercial management in professional services. He is a former Director of the International Auditor and Training Certification Association, which provided global governance, training and guidance for management system auditors.
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Alongside his executive career, Martin has volunteered with disability and community radio organisations, reflecting his longstanding commitment to community engagement and inclusive practice. He brings to StorySALOON a combination of strategic governance experience, operational expertise and a strong commitment to the arts and community sector.